Wing Ashton Hewitt has vowed to produce on his playing return after today pledging his future to Dragons.
Hewitt has put pen to paper on a new deal to stay at Rodney Parade until at least 2021.
And the 24-year-old speedster from Newport is determined to produce next season as he looks to repay the faith of his team-mates and supporters.
“I’m delighted to get the new contract signed and really excited about the future,” he said. “This is my home region and a place that has already had a huge impact on my career.
“I’ve come through the age grades at Dragons with a number of my team-mates, it is somewhere that I identify with and that was a big influence on my decision.
“I spoke with David Buttress about his plans for the future and his vision for Rodney Parade and the Dragons. His enthusiasm to drive this region forward has filled me with confidence.
“I know the potential here and now it is about turning a corner and making good on that potential.”
Hewitt has missed the 2018/19 season after shoulder surgery, but is now fully on course for a return in pre-season.
“I can’t wait to get back out there and get the jersey on,” he smiled.
“The staff have all been fantastic with me, the physios and medics have been great and managed me really well.
“I’ve missed quite a bit of rugby, but that can happen in sport. It’s about how you come back from that.
“I will come into pre-season ready and fully fit with this season behind me and look to show what I know I am capable of.
“I just want to play rugby,” he added. “Delivering for Dragons is my priority. I’m ambitious and have aspirations to play for Wales, but there is no sense in worrying about that.
“My job is to perform in the Guinness PRO14 for Dragons and hopefully if I do that other things will follow.”
Hewitt has also paid tribute to the fan base at Rodney Parade for their words of encouragement and support during his time out.
“I can’t thank the supporters enough for the way they have got behind me during this time out of action. I have seen them at games and had messages on social media wishing me well,” he revealed.
“It will be great to get back out in front of them at Rodney Parade. I love playing there and next season I want to deliver. I can’t wait to get back out and feel that buzz.
“Hopefully next season we can really kick on and get even more people down to Rodney Parade to get behind the team. I’ll be doing all I can to make that happen.”
Ashton has re-signed – have you? Season Memberships renewals for 2019/20 campaign are available NOW. Click HERE for more information.
I can’t thank the supporters enough for the way they have got behind me during this time out of action. I have seen them at games and had messages on social media wishing me well... It will be great to get back out in front of them at Rodney Parade...
